To the west of the Portorosa Marina, below the Tindari Promontory, the Marinello Lagoon is easy to spot. Coming from Portorosa Marina, maintain a distance of 200 meters from the shore and take care not to crush the vegetation, as you explore this natural reserve on foot or by bicycle. The strip of sand that formed the Marinello Lagoon did not exist long ago. In fact, it was first noticed at the beginning of the 19th century. Changes in agricultural methods, deforestation and the building of highways caused the deposits that enlarged the strip of sand that formed the lagoon. Knot-grass and spiny rush are two of the 57 plant species that grow in the lagoon, which also features typical Mediterranean brush such as heather, myrtle, caper and Indian fig. The protected area extends for more than 400 hectares and is home to many animals that feed on the rich biological content of the silt carried by the Timeto River. The large quantity of sand – used primarily in construction – is, unfortunately, endangering the survival of some fish species, such as the buenia affinis and the small local clams. The Coast Guard and the park police are trying to make sure that this amazing area, with its local flora and fauna, a stopping-place for migratory birds, maintains its beauty and integrity. Traveling along the Marinello Lagoon toward the north you will come to a path with a legendary name – Antigone. Recently restored, this path, after crossing the Nerone Canal, leads to the Rocca Femmina District. From here you can get to an area of natural grottos known as Donna Villa, absolutely a must-see if you are in Portorosa Marina. At about 76 meters above sea level, these caves are easily accessible, but the more courageous spelunker and geologist will be rewarded with an interior landscape of stalactites and stalagmites. The presence of tiny holes created by marine mollusks proves that the grotto was at one time at sea level. This phenomenon has fueled the popular legend that calls these tiny holes the fingernail marks of an enraged sorceress – like Homer’s Circe – furious that she can no longer attract passing sailors, seducing them with her songs and cruelly devouring them. Portorosa Marina www.marinadiportorosa.com